News from RentHelpMN
Thank you for signing up to receive updates about RentHelpMN. This month, in addition to program updates, we are taking a look at the different roles of people who are part of the RentHelpMN team and how they help applicants in the process.
Who’s who on the RentHelpMN team:
There are approximately 1,000 people who are working in a variety of roles to help Minnesota renters and property owners access the aid available through RentHelpMN. Who are some of the people you might work with while applying for RentHelpMN emergency assistance?
-
Field Partners: RentHelpMN works with local service organizations to help
people learn about and navigate the program. Field Partners can help renters submit applications and track their progress. You might connect with a Field
Partner at a community event, through outreach from them, or by being referred
by 211.
-
211: Specialists at 211 are available to answer questions about the program, eligibility requirements, and application status; provide further
detail about some requests from the processing team; and connect you
with someone who can resolve application questions. They can also refer you
to additional community resources as needed.
-
Processors: Members of the processing team review applications and the documentation, make sure everything is in order, and request additional
information as needed. Your processor may call you or send messages
through the portal. You can log in to respond to messages in the "Comms" tab.
-
RentHelpMN Resource: Renters who have a RentHelpMN application in progress
but receive an eviction notice still need to respond to the notice and attend the
court hearing to present proof of the application. Minnesota Housing has staff members present at eviction court meetings to assist in providing information to
all parties about application statuses. So far, this team has helped in over 750 cases.
Payment progress: Through the end of November, RentHelpMN has assisted over 37,000 households with $273.9 million for past due rent and utility expenses. You can learn more at the RentHelpMN Applications Dashboard.
Holiday Hours: The 211 call center will be closed on the following dates in December and January: December 24 and 25; December 31 and January 1; January 17. Normal RentHelpMN call center hours are Monday – Saturday, 8 AM – 8 PM.
If you are a renter:
Still accepting applications:
RentHelpMN is still open for applications from renters who owe past-due rent. Renters can request assistance with rent and utility expenses. There is no deadline to apply, and funds are still available.
When to re-apply:
If you have previously received assistance from RentHelpMN, your account will show a “re-apply” button after your payment is sent. If you fall behind on rent again, you can use this button to request additional assistance. You may also re-apply if you have previously withdrawn an application and now need assistance, or if your application is denied for eligibility reasons and you now believe you are eligible for the program.Learn more about re-application.
Tip for property managers:
Assistance for rent after a tenant has moved:
RentHelpMN began accepting applications under the Vacated Unit policy on October 15. Per Treasury rules, these requests must be initiated by the renter and used to remove barriers they face in seeking new housing. Download the FAQ to learn more.
For more information:
|
